Valve Apparatus and System

ABSTRACT

A bistable valve. The valve includes an interior cavity; a first pressure source; a second pressure source; a first post connected to the interior cavity at a first end of the interior cavity; a second post connected to the interior cavity at a second end of the interior cavity; a magnetic shuttle located within the interior cavity; a first electromagnetic coil disposed about the first post; a second electromagnetic coil disposed about the second post; wherein when the first electromagnetic coil is energized, the first electromagnetic coil supplies a magnetic charge to the first post and actuates the magnetic shuttle to move towards the first end of the interior cavity towards the first post and seal the first pressure source.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/844,202 filed Jul. 9, 2013 and entitled Valve Apparatus andSystem (Attorney Docket No. K61), which is hereby incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This application relates generally to valves, and more particularly, tovarious valve apparatus and systems.

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, controlling the flow of a fluid may be accomplished byusing a pneumatically, electrically or magnetically-actuated valve.These valves often require a constant source of current or fluid flow tostay in a particular position. In contrast, a bistable valve is stablein either position, and only requires energy input to switch positions.However, integrating pre-made bistable valves into a system may beoverly complex and expensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one implementation, a bistable valve is disclosed.The bistable valve includes an interior cavity; a first pressure sourceconnected to the interior cavity; a second pressure source connected tothe interior cavity; a first post connected to the interior cavity at afirst end of the interior cavity; a second post connected to theinterior cavity at a second end of the interior cavity; a magneticshuttle located within the interior cavity; a first electromagnetic coildisposed about the first post; a second electromagnetic coil disposedabout the second post; wherein when the first electromagnetic coil isenergized, the first electromagnetic coil supplies a magnetic charge tothe first post and actuates the magnetic shuttle to move towards thefirst end of the interior cavity towards the first post and seal thefirst pressure source, and wherein when the second electromagnetic coilis energized, the second electromagnetic coil supplies a magnetic chargeto the second post and actuates the magnetic shuttle to move towards thesecond end of the interior cavity towards the second post and seal thesecond pressure source.

Some embodiments of this implementation may include one or more of thefollowing features. Wherein the first post is in fluid communicationwith the first pressure source and the second post is in fluidcommunication with the second pressure source. Wherein the valve furtherincluding a first and second pressure inlet, the first and secondpressure inlet fluidly connected to the first and second pressuresource. Wherein the interior valve cavity located between the first andsecond post. Wherein the magnetic shuttle comprising a first membraneportion, a magnet portion and a second membrane portion, the first andsecond membrane portions attached to the magnet portion on opposite endsof the magnet portion. Wherein the shuttle is sealed against the firstpost in a first configuration and wherein the shuttle is sealed againstthe second post in a second configuration. Wherein the first postcomprising a first membrane and wherein the second post comprising asecond membrane. Wherein the first post and the second post furthercomprising at least one stabilizing feature. Wherein the valve furtherincludes an output orifice in fluid communication with the valve cavity.

In accordance with one implementation, a bistable valve is disclosed.The bistable valve includes an interior cavity; a first pressure sourceconnected to the interior cavity; a second pressure source connected tothe interior cavity; a magnetic shuttle located within the interiorcavity; and at least one electromagnetic coil that actuates the magneticshuttle; wherein when the electromagnetic coil is energized, theelectromagnetic coil supplies a magnetic charge that actuates themagnetic shuttle to move towards a first end of the interior cavity andseal the first pressure source.

Some embodiments of this implementation may include one or more of thefollowing features. Wherein the valve further includes a first post anda second post, wherein the first post is in fluid communication with thefirst pressure source and the second post is in fluid communication withthe second pressure source. Wherein the valve further includes a firstelectromagnetic coil disposed about the first post wherein, whenenergized, the electromagnetic coil supplies magnetic charge to thefirst post. Wherein the valve further includes a second electromagneticcoil disposed about the second post wherein, when energized, theelectromagnetic coil supplies magnetic charge to the second post.Wherein the valve further includes a first post and a second post.Wherein the first post and the second post further comprising at leastone stabilizing feature. Wherein the valve further includes a firstelectromagnetic coil disposed about the first post wherein, whenenergized, the electromagnetic coil supplies magnetic charge to thefirst post. Wherein the valve further includes a second electromagneticcoil disposed about the second post wherein, when energized, theelectromagnetic coil supplies magnetic charge to the first post. Whereinthe valve further includes a first and second pressure inlet, the firstand second pressure inlet fluidly connected to the first and secondpressure source. Wherein the magnetic shuttle is disposed within theinterior valve cavity and wherein the interior valve cavity locatedbetween the first and second post. Wherein the magnetic shuttlecomprising a first membrane portion, a magnet portion and a secondmembrane portion, the first and second membrane portions attached to themagnet portion on opposite ends of the magnet portion. Wherein theshuttle is sealed against the first pressure source in a firstconfiguration and wherein the shuttle is sealed against the secondpressure source in a second configuration.

In accordance with one implementation, a bistable valve suitable forintegration into a plurality of systems is disclosed. The bistable valveis stable in multiple states, requiring energy only to switch betweenstates. In one aspect, the bistable valve includes a valve manifolddefining an interior valve cavity having a common output orifice, afirst and second pressure source within the interior valve cavity, and amagnetically actuated shuttle that is capable of sealing either thefirst or second pressure source. When a pressure source is sealed by theshuttle, the sealed pressure source is not in fluid communication withthe common output orifice, but the non-sealed pressure source is. Whenactuated, the shuttle switches from sealing one pressure source tosealing the other. The shuttle can be actuated by energizing one or bothpressure sources with a magnetic charge using an electromagnetic coilsuch that the shuttle is acted upon by either an attractive or repellantmagnetic force, or both. The net magnetic force acting on the shuttlecauses the actuation because the shuttle includes multiple magnets.

The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanyingdrawings and the description below. Other features and advantages willbecome apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the one embodiment of a bistable valve;

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a bistable valvewith a shuttle capable of being actuated by electromagnets;

FIG. 1C is another cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 1A,further showing fasteners;

FIG. 1D is a partial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 1Amore closely showing the shuttle capable of being actuated byelectromagnets of the bistable valve;

FIG. 1E is a top view of a ring plate according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shuttle;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 2A, showing twodisk magnets oriented back-to-back;

FIG. 2C is a view of the magnetization vector and magnetic flux path ofone embodiment of a shuttle;

FIG. 2D is a view of the magnetic flux path of one embodiment when theshuttle is acted upon by an electromagnetic coil;

FIG. 2E is a view of the magnetic flux path of one embodiment, when theshuttle is acted upon by an electromagnetic coil and there is a ringplate to assist in the transfer of magnetic flux;

FIG. 2F is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shuttle havingmechanical retainers;

FIG. 2G is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 2F, showingmechanical retainers;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shuttle showing twostacked ring magnets;

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 3A, showing twostacked ring magnets;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shuttle showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 4A showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets;

FIG. 4C is a top cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 4A showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets;

FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a shuttle showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a shuttle showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets in a stacked pattern;

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 5A showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets in a stacked pattern;

FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of FIG. 5A, showingmultiple radially-oriented magnets in a stacked pattern;

FIG. 6A is a front view of one embodiment of a shuttle having guideposts on either side of the shuttle;

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a shuttle havingelastomer guide posts that seal on a shelf within a cavity;

FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a shuttle havingconical elastomer guide posts that seal on a shelf within a cavity;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valve apparatusand system where the shuttle is encased in a membrane;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valve apparatusand system including stacked electromagnetic coil geometry rather thanflat, circuit-board based electromagnetic coil geometry;

FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valve apparatusand system, this embodiment utilizing a cantilever armature instead of ashuttle;

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valve apparatusand system, this embodiment using an axially-oriented magnet inconjunction with the cantilever armature from the embodiment in FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valve apparatusand system, this embodiment using a radially-oriented magnet inconjunction with the cantilever armature from the embodiment in FIG. 9A;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a valve apparatusand system arranged in an array geometry;

FIG. 10B is a top view of a circuit board having multiple flatelectromagnetic coils according to one embodiment;

FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valveapparatus and system arranged in an array geometry;

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valveapparatus and system integrated into a system;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valveapparatus and system integrated into a system;

FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valveapparatus and system arranged in an array geometry;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a valveapparatus and system arranged in an array geometry showing fasteners inthe assembly;

FIG. 13 is a top view of an outer plate for use in the array geometryembodiment;

FIGS. 14A-14C are various views of one embodiment of a valve apparatus;

FIGS. 15A-15B are various views of one embodiment of a valve apparatus;

FIGS. 16A-16B are various views of one embodiment of a valve apparatus;

FIGS. 17A-17E are various views of one embodiment of a valve apparatus;

FIGS. 18A-18B are various views of one embodiment of a valve manifold;

FIGS. 19A-19B are various views of one embodiment of a valveincorporated into a regulator;

FIGS. 20A-20C are various views of one embodiment of a valve apparatus;and

FIGS. 21A-21C are various views of one embodiment of a valve apparatus.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One embodiment of a valve apparatus and system is illustrated in FIGS.1A-1E. This embodiment of the bistable valve 10 includes a firstpressure source 12, a second pressure source 14, a shuttle 16, multiplecircuit boards 18, each having at least one electromagnetic coil 34 toactuate the shuttle 16, a valve manifold 20 having an interior valvecavity 32, and a common output orifice 22 in fluid communication withthe valve cavity 32.

The first pressure source 12, in various embodiments, may have a hollowpost portion 28 extending into the valve cavity 32. In some embodiments,this may be constructed of a ferrous material. Similarly, the secondpressure source 14 has a hollow post portion 30 extending into the valvecavity 32 substantially opposite from the first pressure post 28 and mayalso be constructed of a ferrous material in various embodiments. Invarious embodiments, the first pressure post 28 may include a firstpressure orifice 24, which is in fluid communication with the firstpressure source 12. Similarly, the second pressure post 30 may have asecond pressure orifice 26 which may be in fluid communication with thesecond pressure source 14.

A first circuit board 18 having a first electromagnetic coil 34 isdisposed around the first pressure post 28 such that, when energized,the first electromagnetic coil 34 supplies a magnetic charge to thefirst pressure post 28. Similarly, a second circuit board 18 having asecond electromagnetic coil 34 is disposed around the second pressurepost 30 such that, when energized, the second electromagnetic coil 34supplies a magnetic charge to the second pressure post 30. An outerplate 19 constructed of a ferrous material, in various embodiments, maybe disposed around each of the first pressure post 28 and the secondpressure post 30, and abutting to an insulatory layer on the outer edge21 of each of the circuit boards 18. In various embodiments, each of theouter plates 19 are connected to each other by way of fasteners 17 alsoconstructed of a ferrous material. Various embodiments further include aring plate 23 constructed of a ferrous material and having a centralopening 25 defined by an inner edge 27, disposed in the valve manifold20 such that the ring plate 23 is in contact with each fastener 17 andthe central opening 25 surrounds the shuttle 16 within the interiorvalve cavity 32. The outer plates 19 and fasteners 17 form a box offerrous material surrounding the electromagnetic coils 34, the firstpressure post 28, the second pressure post 30, the ring plate 23, andthe shuttle 16. In various embodiments, the outer plates 19, fasteners17, ring plate 23, first pressure post 28 and second pressure post 30are all constructed of a ferrous material including, but not limited to,iron, stainless steel or a nickel-iron alloy such as mu metal or, morespecifically, a 42 nickel-iron alloy, the composition of which containsapproximately 42% nickel.

In various embodiments, the shuttle 16 is either sealed against thefirst pressure orifice 24 in a first stable position such that thesecond pressure orifice 26 is in fluid communication with the interiorvalve cavity 32, but the first pressure orifice 24 is not, or,alternatively, the shuttle 16 is sealed against the second pressureorifice 26 in a second stable position such that the first pressureorifice 24 is in fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 32,but the second pressure orifice 26 is not. In each static sealingposition, the shuttle 16 is held in place by a magnetic attraction fromthe shuttle 16 to either the first pressure post 28 or the secondpressure post 30, whichever is being sealed.

To switch the position of the shuttle 16 from sealing against the firstpressure orifice 24 to sealing against the second pressure orifice 26,the electromagnetic coils 34 disposed around each of the second pressurepost 30 and the first pressure post 28 are energized such that the firstpressure post 28 exerts a repellant force on the shuttle 16, while thesecond pressure post 30 exerts an attractive force on the shuttle 16. Invarious embodiments, both forces are sufficient enough that, working inconjunction, the attractive and repellant forces are enough to overcomethe magnetic force currently holding the shuttle 16 to the firstpressure orifice 24. Once this occurs, the shuttle 16 moves linearlythrough the valve cavity 32 from sealing the first pressure orifice 24to sealing the second pressure orifice 26. Once this switch occurs, theelectromagnetic coils 34 cease to be energized and the shuttle 16 isretained against the second pressure orifice 26 through a staticmagnetic attraction.

Similarly, to switch the position of the shuttle 16 from sealing againstthe second pressure orifice 26 to sealing against the first pressureorifice 24, the electromagnetic coils 34 disposed around each of thefirst pressure post 28 and the second pressure post 30 are energizedsuch that the second pressure post 30 exerts a repellant force on theshuttle 16, while the first pressure post 28 exerts an attractive forceon the shuttle 16. Both forces are sufficient enough that, working inconjunction, the attractive and repellant forces are enough to overcomethe magnetic force statically holding the shuttle 16 to the secondpressure orifice 26. Once this occurs, the shuttle 16 moves linearlythrough the valve cavity 32 from sealing the second pressure orifice 26to sealing the first pressure orifice 24. Once this switch occurs, theelectromagnetic coils 34 cease to be energized and the shuttle 16 isretained against the first pressure post 28 through a static magneticattraction.

In various embodiments, the electromagnetic coils are both energized inseries in one polarity to actuate the shuttle in one direction.Similarly, to actuate the shuttle in the opposite direction, bothelectromagnetic coils are energized together in series in the oppositepolarity.

In various embodiments, the coils 34 are energized by way of dischargingcurrent from a charged capacitor. Once the capacitor is depleted,current ceases to charge the respective coil 34, and the shuttle 16 isheld against either the first pressure post 28 or the second pressurepost 30, by way of static magnetic attraction while the capacitorrecharges. Use of a capacitor to charge the electromagnetic coils 34 isbeneficial/desirable for many reasons, including, but not limited tominimizing safety concerns. Use of a charged capacitor to energize theelectromagnetic coils 34 may limit the amount of continuous current thecoils 34 are exposed to thereby minimizing the risk of applyingexcessive current as well as decreasing the risk of fire and otherthermal related failure. Another reason that use of a capacitor tocharge the electromagnetic coils 34 is beneficial/desirable is it allowsfor smaller and cheaper construction of the present invention. Onecapacitor may be used to energize multiple valves, thereby avoiding theneed to implement multiple sources of current into the valveapplication. However, in alternate embodiments, the electromagneticcoils may be energized by way of a continuous source of current.

In yet another embodiment, the bistable valve may only consist of asingle electromagnetic coil used to actuate the shuttle 16 in bothsealing positions.

Referring now also to FIGS. 2A and 2B, in various embodiments, theshuttle 16 includes a carrier 36 and two magnets 38, alignedconcentrically and oriented back-to back with their closestcorresponding faces 40 having the same polarity, and as such, exhibit arepelling force against each other. Various embodiments of the shuttlemay include an elastomer layer 42 disposed on each magnet's outward face44 and acts as a seal when the shuttle is actuated against either thefirst pressure orifice 24 or the second pressure orifice 26. In variousembodiments, the elastomer layer 42 may be constructed of a pliantmaterial which may include, but is not limited to, silicone and/orpolyurethane. In some embodiments, each elastomer layer 42 may beretained in the shuttle 16 mechanically by portions of the shuttle 16that overlap the edge of each elastomer layer 42 and sandwich it to thecorresponding magnet's outward face 44. In some embodiments, eachelastomer layer 42 may be retained in the shuttle by adhesive holdingthe elastomer to each magnet's outward face 44. In some embodiments, theelastomer layers 42 may be disposed on each magnet's outward face 44 byway of overmolding the entire magnet 38 with the elastomer material orapplying a two-part elastomer material to the magnet 38. In someembodiments, each elastomer layer 42 may be obtained by sandwiching eachmagnet 38 between two sheets of elastomer material and melting portionsof the sheets to each other in order to create a pocket of elastomer inwhich each magnet 38 resides. In some embodiments, the elastomer layeron one side of the shuttle may be thicker than the other side in orderto decrease the sealing stability on the thicker side which may bebeneficial/desirable for many reasons, including but not limited to,where failsafe operation is desired.

In some embodiments, either the first pressure orifice 24 or the secondpressure orifice 26 is sealed against an elastomer layer 42 of theshuttle 16 by way of both the first pressure post 28 and the secondpressure post 30 having a flat surface with rounded edges surroundingthe first pressure orifice 24 and the second pressure orifice 26. Insome embodiments, the shuttle 16 may seal using a conical geometrysurrounding the first pressure orifice 24 and the second pressureorifice 26. In some embodiments, the shuttle 16 may seal using a conicalgeometry with a flat surface with a width of about 0.005 inchesimmediately surrounding both the first pressure orifice 24 and thesecond pressure orifice 26. In some embodiments, the shuttle 16 may sealusing a hemispherical tip geometry surrounding both the first pressureorifice 24 and the second pressure orifice 26.

In some embodiments, the carrier 36 of the shuttle 16 may furtherinclude a guide cavity 50 in each side 46, 48 of the shuttle carrier 36that circumscribes each elastomer layer 42 such that the guide cavity 50envelopes a portion of both the first pressure post 28 and the secondpressure post 30, regardless of which is being sealed. This may bebeneficial/desirable for many reasons, including but not limited to,maintaining proper alignment with each pressure post. In variousembodiments, the shuttle 16 may also include a plurality of air flownotches 52 in each side 46, 48 of the shuttle carrier 36 that enablefluid communication from the valve cavity 32, to either the firstpressure orifice 24 or the second pressure orifice 26, whichever is notbeing sealed, by way of the corresponding guide cavity 50.

In some embodiments, the shuttle 16 may use the attractive magneticforce from each pressure post to maintain proper alignment. In some ofthese embodiments, guide cavities 50 may not be used.

Referring now also to FIG. 2C, the magnetic flux path present in someembodiments of the shuttle 16 is shown. In some embodiments, the magnets38 may be oriented back-to-back with their closest corresponding faces40 having the same polarity, and as such, exhibit a repelling forceagainst each other. When the magnets 38 are oriented in this manner, aradial magnetic vector 39 is created by the interaction of the magnets'38 respective flux leakage paths 29, which are used to switch theposition of the shuttle 16 when the electromagnetic coils 34 aresufficiently energized, as shown in FIG. 2D. When the shuttle 16 issealed against the negative pressure orifice 26 and the electromagneticcoils 34 are energized such that they supply an attractive magneticcharge to the first pressure post 28 and a repellant magnetic charge tothe second pressure post 30, the flux leakage paths 29 of the shuttle 16may cause the attractive and repellant magnetic charges of the posts torepel the shuttle 16 away from the second pressure post 30 and attracttowards the first pressure post 28 in order to switch the shuttle 16 tosealing against the first pressure orifice 24.

Similarly, when the shuttle 16 is sealed against the first pressureorifice 24 and the electromagnetic coils 34 are energized such that theysupply an attractive magnetic charge to the second pressure post 30 anda repellant magnetic charge to the first pressure post 28, the fluxleakage paths 29 of the shuttle 16 may cause the attractive andrepellant magnetic charges of the posts to repel the shuttle 16 awayfrom the first pressure post 28 and attract towards the second pressurepost 30. This switches the shuttle 16 to sealing against the secondpressure orifice 26.

Referring now also to FIG. 2E, another embodiment is shown utilizing thering plate 23 to assist in switching the position of the shuttle 16. Insome embodiments, the ring plate 23 may be disposed around the shuttle16 such that its inner edge 27 may be in close proximity to the shuttle16 in either sealing position. In some embodiments, when the firstpressure post 28 and the second pressure post 30 are energized such thatthey induce the shuttle 16 to switch sealing positions, the ring plate23 allows the magnetic flux from the first pressure post 28 and thesecond pressure post 30 to more effectively travel through the fasteners17 and the outer plates 19 to assist in attracting the flux leakagepaths from one side of the shuttle 16 and repelling the flux leakagepaths from the opposite side of the shuttle 16. This may result in theshuttle 16 switching positions.

Referring now to FIGS. 2F and 2G, in some embodiments, the shuttle 16may include layers of elastomer 42 retained to the magnet faces 44 byway of mechanical retainers 41. In these embodiments, the shuttle 16uses magnetic force from each of the pressure posts to maintainalignment and, as such, may not, in some embodiments, include any guidecavities.

Referring now also to FIGS. 3A and 3B, in some embodiments, the shuttle54 may include a carrier 56 and two ring magnets 58, alignedconcentrically and oriented back-to back with their closestcorresponding faces 59 having the same polarity. As such, the two ringmagnets 58 exhibit a repelling force against each other. A layer ofelastomer 60 may also be disposed between the two ring magnets 58, insome embodiments, such that the central aperture 61 of each ring magnetis not in fluid communication with the other.

Referring now also to FIGS. 4A and 4B, another embodiment of the shuttle62 may includes a carrier 64, multiple magnets 66 arranged in a radialpattern around a central axis 76, and two central guide cavities 70aligned coaxially with the central axis 76, one extending into a topsurface 72 and the other extending into a bottom surface 74. Eachradially-oriented magnet 66 may have a magnetization vector through itsthickness, thereby giving the shuttle 62 an overall radial magnetizationvector. In various embodiments, the shuttle 62 may further include alayer of elastomer 68 disposed in each of the two central guide cavities70. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4D, the two central guidecavities 70 may be formed by disposing a layer of elastomer 69 in acentral channel 71 that extends through the entire thickness of theshuttle 62 such that the elastomer 69 bisects the channel 71 and doesnot permit fluid communication from the top surface 72 to the bottomsurface 74.

Referring now also to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in some embodiments, the shuttle78 may include a carrier 80, at least two concentrically-stacked layers82, each having multiple magnets 84 arranged in a radial pattern arounda central axis 90. Each radially-oriented magnet 84 may have amagnetization vector through its thickness, thereby giving the shuttle78 an overall radial magnetization vector. In various embodiments, theshuttle 78 may include a central cavity 88 disposed along the centralaxis 90 and extending through the entire thickness of each layer 82. Invarious embodiments, the shuttle 78 may include a layer of elastomer 86disposed between each of the concentrically-stacked layers 82 andcompletely covering the central cavity 88 of each layer 82 such that thecentral cavity 88 of each layer 82 is not in fluid communication withanother.

Referring now to FIG. 5C, another embodiment of the shuttle 78 is shown.In some embodiments, the shuttle 78 may include two central guidecavities 92, aligned coaxially with the central axis 90, one extendinginto a top surface 96 of the shuttle 78, and the other extending into abottom surface 98 of the shuttle 78. In various embodiments, the shuttle78 may also include a layer of elastomer 94 disposed in each of the twocentral guide cavities 92.

In some embodiments, the embodiments of the shuttle 78 shown in FIGS. 5Aand 5B may include two shuttles 62. In some embodiments, the twoshuttles 62 may be those embodiments of the shuttle 62 shown in FIGS.4A-4D that have been aligned coaxially and mated together. In variousother embodiments, the two shuttles may be a different embodiment of theshuttle including, but not limited to, the various embodiments of theshuttle described herein.

Referring now also to FIG. 6A, in some embodiments, the shuttle 100 mayinclude two magnets 104 oriented back-to-back and two posts 102extending from the outward faces 106 of each magnet 104. Each post 102may be disposed such that, when the bistable valve 10 is assembled, theposts 102 may be positioned in both the first hollow post portion 28 andthe second hollow post portion 30. This may be beneficial/desirable formany reasons, including but not limited to, eliminating the need forguide cavities in the shuttle. In some embodiments, each post 102 has acutout 108 to facilitate fluid flow from the unsealed orifice.

Referring now also to FIGS. 6B and 6C, in some embodiments, the post 103may be constructed of an elastomer material and may seal against a shelf105 disposed within a cavity 107 of the applicable post 109. In someembodiments, the embodiment of the elastomer post 103 shown in FIG. 6Bmay be constructed of a conical geometry and seals against the shelf 105of the cavity 107 which may be constructed of a mating conical geometryas seen in FIG. 6C.

Referring now also to FIG. 7 in some embodiments, the shuttle 110 may beencased in a membrane portion 112 and suspended by a membrane portion114 in an interior valve cavity 116. The membrane portion 114, in someembodiments, may be perforated to allow pressure equalization in theinterior valve cavity 116. In some embodiments, the membrane portion 112encasing the shuttle 110 may not be perforated, however, and may act asa seal to prevent fluid communication between the interior valve cavity116 and either a first pressure orifice 118 or a second pressure orifice120. In some embodiments, the membrane may be sandwiched between theshuttle's sides instead of enveloping the shuttle.

Referring now also to FIG. 8, a cross-sectional view showing anotherembodiment of the shuttle 124 is shown. In this embodiment, the shuttle124 is actuated to seal either a first pressure orifice 126 or a secondpressure orifice 128 through the use of traditional wound-coilelectromagnets 122 instead of flat circuit board-based electromagneticcoils 34.

Referring now also to FIG. 9A an embodiment of a valve system/manifoldis shown. In some embodiments, the valve manifold 130 may include aninterior valve cavity 131, a first pressure source 132, a secondpressure source 134, a cantilever armature 146 constructed of a ferrousor magnetic material, at least two electromagnetic coils 144, and acommon output orifice 148. In some embodiments, the first pressuresource 132 may include a first pressure post 136, which, in variousembodiments, may be constructed of a ferrous material, and extends intothe interior valve cavity 131, the interior edge of the first pressurepost 136 defining a first pressure orifice 140. In various embodiments,the first pressure post 136 may be hollow such that the first pressuresource 132 is in fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 131by way of the first pressure orifice 140. In various embodiments, thesecond pressure source 134 may include a second pressure post 138,which, in some embodiments, may be constructed of a ferrous material,and extends into the interior valve cavity 131 substantially opposite ofthe first pressure post 136, the interior edge of the second pressurepost 138 defining a second pressure orifice 142. In various embodiments,the second pressure post 138 may be hollow such that the second pressuresource 134 is in fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 131by way of the second pressure orifice 142. In various embodiments, thecantilever armature 146 may extend into the interior valve cavity 131such that it is disposed between the first pressure orifice 140 and thesecond pressure orifice 142.

In various embodiments, a first electromagnetic coil 144 may be disposedaround the first pressure post 136 such that, when the coil 144 has acurrent passed through it, the coil 144 energizes the first pressurepost 136 which exerts an attractive force on the cantilever armature146. A second electromagnetic coil 144 may be disposed around the secondpressure post 138 such that, when the coil 144 has a current passedthrough it, the coil energizes the second pressure post 138 which exertsan attractive force on the cantilever armature 146.

In various embodiments, the cantilever armature 146 may be either sealedagainst the first pressure orifice 140 in a first position, or,alternatively, the armature 146 is sealed against the second pressureorifice 142 in a second position. In each sealing position, the armature146 is held in place by a continuous magnetic attraction from thearmature 146 to either the energized first pressure post 136 or theenergized second pressure post 138, respectively, such that the fluidcommunication between the interior valve cavity 131 and thecorresponding first pressure orifice 140 or the second pressure orifice142 is eliminated. To switch the armature 146 from sealing against thefirst pressure orifice 140 to sealing against the second pressureorifice 142, the electromagnetic coil 144 disposed around the firstpressure post 136 ceases to be energized and the electromagnetic coil144 disposed around the second pressure post 138 is energized such thatit supplies a magnetic charge to the second pressure post 138 sufficientto attract the armature 146 to sealing against the second pressureorifice 142. Similarly, to switch the armature 146 from sealing againstthe second pressure orifice 142 to sealing against the first pressureorifice 140, the electromagnetic coil 144 disposed around the secondpressure post 138 ceases to be energized and the electromagnetic coil144 disposed around the first pressure post 136 is energized such thatit supplies a magnetic charge to the first pressure post 136 sufficientto attract the armature 146 to sealing against the first pressureorifice 140.

Referring now also to FIG. 9B, another embodiments of the valvesystem/manifold is shown. In this embodiment, the embodiment shown inFIG. 9A further comprises a magnet 150 disposed on the cantileverarmature 146 with the magnetic force vector 155 substantially alignedwith an axis 152 defined by the first pressure post 136 and the secondpressure post 138. In some embodiments, the valve system shown in FIG.9B may function as a bistable valve wherein the electromagnetic coils donot need to continuously energize the pressure post having thecurrently-sealed pressure orifice. The armature 146 is held against thesealed orifice through a static magnetic attraction.

Referring now also to FIG. 9C another embodiments of the valvesystem/manifold is shown. In this embodiment, the embodiment shown inFIG. 9A further includes a magnet 154 disposed on the cantileverarmature 146 with the magnetic force vector 156 substantiallyperpendicular to the axis 152. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG.9B, the embodiment in FIG. 9C may also function as a bistable valve.

In various embodiments, the valve may be actuated by way of running acurrent through an electromagnetic coil, whose subsequent magnetic fluxacts on a ferro fluid.

In various embodiments, the bistable valve may be actuated by aplurality of arrays in which a first array comprises a row ofalternating polarity magnets, disposed adjacent to a second arraycomprising a row of alternating ferrous and non-ferrous material suchthat in one stable position, the ferrous material allows conductance ofone polarity of the magnets, and in a second stable position, the arrayshave shifted so the ferrous material allows conductance of the oppositepolarity of the magnets. Depending on the magnetic polarity beingconducted by the ferrous material, an adjacent ferrous or magnetic bodyis either pushed towards or pulled away from the plurality of arrays. Itis this action on the ferrous body that causes a first stable positionin the valve to occur or a second stable position in the valve to occur.By suspending the ferrous or magnetic body in an over molded elastomer,a seal against one or more orifices can be obtained in either positionto allow each of the bistable valve's positions to occur. The shiftingof the arrays may be caused by running a current through a plurality ofpiezoelectric crystals attached to each array. In some embodiments, thearrays may be shifted by other means/mechanisms/devices such as, but notlimited to, one or more of the following: servos, motors, solenoids,hydraulic means, pneumatic means, and/or NITINOL wire.

In some embodiments, the action of the above magnetic body being pushedor pulled away may be used to compress fluid in a closed system againsta thin membrane that will then deform into a bubble geometry. In variousembodiments, this action may be used to actuate a valve by sealing thedeformed membrane against an orifice in one position and allowing fluidcommunication through the orifice in another, non-deformed geometry.

In various embodiments, the valve may be actuated using an electroactivepolymer. When the electroactive polymer is energized by sending currentthrough it, the polymer may expand in one direction while compressing inanother direction and allowing an attached seal to separate from a valveorifice. This separation allows fluid communication through the valvefrom that orifice. Stopping the current from running through theelectroactive polymer allows the electroactive polymer to return to itsoriginal shape, expanding in the direction in which it previouslycompressed, and causing the attached seal to return to the valveorifice, stopping fluid communication from that orifice. Energizing theelectroactive polymer may be accomplished by over molding electrodes incontact with the electroactive polymer. In various embodiments,energizing the electroactive polymer may occur through the use of etchedor printed electrodes in a flat orientation being directly attached tothe electroactive polymer. Multiple layers of these electrodes may beutilized to achieve optimal control of the electroactive polymer.

Referring now also to FIG. 10A, a perspective view of a plurality ofbistable valves 10 according to one embodiment are arranged in an array158 wherein the valve manifold 20 is a common part among multiplebistable valves 10. Referring now also to FIG. 10B, a top view of acircuit board 18 comprising multiple electromagnetic coils 34 for use inone embodiments of bistable valves arranged in an array 158 as shown inFIG. 10A. Referring now also to FIG. 10C, is a cross-sectional viewshowing a plurality of one embodiments of bistable valves 10 arranged ina valve array 158 and utilizing a common valve manifold 20, wherein thevalve manifold 20 comprises multiple interior valve cavities 32, isshown.

In various embodiments, the electromagnetic coils 34 may be disposed ina flexible circuit board instead of a rigid circuit board.

In various embodiments of the various embodiments of the valve arraysmay include two or more bistable valves.

Referring now also to FIG. 11A, in some embodiments, at least onebistable valve 10 may be integrated into a system 160. The bistablevalve 10 may be affixed to a system manifold 162 in a verticalorientation such that the common output orifice 22 is in fluidcommunication with the system's pressure input 168. In variousembodiments, the valve system 160 further includes a first pressuresource 164 and a second pressure source 166 for use in the bistablevalve 10, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D. The first pressuresource 164 and the second pressure source 166 may be integrated into thesystem manifold 162 or, in another embodiment, may be standalonecomponents in the system 160. In yet another embodiment, either thefirst pressure source 164, the second pressure source 166, or both maybe a common source to all or multiple bistable valves 10 integrated intothe system manifold 162.

Referring now also to FIG. 11B, in some embodiments, at least onebistable valve 10 may be integrated into a system 160 and in variousembodiments of the system 160, two or more bistable valves 10 may beintegrated into a system 160. In this embodiment, the bistable valve 10may be disposed in a horizontal orientation and directly affixed to thesystem manifold 162 such that the common output orifice 22 is in directfluid communication with the system's pressure input 168. The system 160may further includes a first pressure source 170 and a second pressuresource 172 for use in the bistable valve 10 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D. Thefirst pressure source 170 and the second pressure source 172 may beintegrated into the system manifold 162 or, in some embodiments, may bestandalone components in the system 160. In some embodiments, either thefirst pressure source 170, the second pressure source 172, or both maybe a common source to all or multiple bistable valves 10 integrated intothe system 160.

Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, in some embodiments, a plurality ofbistable valves 10 may be arranged in an array 180. This array 180 mayutilize common components between the multiple bistable valves 10, suchas a valve manifold comprising an upper manifold half 182 and a lowermanifold half 184. The upper and lower manifold halves may definemultiple interior valve cavities 186, each interior valve cavity 186corresponding to one bistable valve assembly. Other common componentsmay include an upper half track 190 including an upper half trackpressure rail 194 and a lower half track 192 including a lower halftrack pressure rail 196. The upper half track pressure rail 194 mayprovide the same pressure input to each of the upper pressure inputposts 198, wherein each upper pressure input post 198 corresponds to oneof the plurality of bistable valves in the array 180. Similarly, thelower half track pressure rail 196 may provide the same pressure inputto each of the lower pressure input posts 200, wherein each lowerpressure input post 200 corresponds to one of the plurality of bistablevalves 10 in the array 180. As seen in FIG. 12B, in various embodiments,adjacent bistable valves may further share common fasteners 188constructed of a ferrous material which are integral to the magneticreturn path in the function of each bistable valve 10 in the array 180.

In various embodiments, the upper manifold half 182 and lower manifoldhalf 184 of the current embodiment may be ultrasonically welded togetherto create an airtight union between the two. Similarly, each of theupper half track 190 and the lower half track 192 may be ultrasonicallywelded together to create an airtight union around the respective upperhalf track pressure rail 194 and lower half track pressure rail 196. Thevalve manifold and each of the upper half track 190 and lower half track192 components may then be assembled to each other using laser welding.

As seen in FIG. 12B, some embodiments may include an outer plate 202constructed of a ferrous material. The upper and lower outer plates 202may be connected by a plurality of common fasteners 188 also constructedof a ferrous material.

Referring now also to FIG. 13, in some embodiments, an outer plate 202may be employed by an array 180 of bistable valves. In variousembodiments, a plurality of fasteners 188 surrounds the pressure posts204 of each valve in the array. Additionally, in various embodiments,each outer plate may further include a plurality of directional slits206. The directional slits 206 may be arranged such that the magneticflux paths of two adjacent valves are directed towards differentfasteners 188 to aid in each valve's function when both are actuatedsimultaneously. In various embodiments, staggering adjacent valves'actuation times may be used to optimize the valves' magnetic flux pathflow.

Referring now also to FIGS. 14A-14C, another embodiment of a bistablevalve structure is shown. The valve 1400 includes an interior valvecavity 1420 defined by a first housing 1402, a second housing 1404, anda midbody 1406. Additionally, the valve 1400 includes a plurality of endplates 1408, a shuttle 1410, a first post 1412, a second post 1414,first pressure inlet 1416, a second pressure inlet 1418, and a commonoutput orifice 1422. Further, the bistable valve 1400 includes a firstelectromagnetic coil 1424 and a second electromagnetic coil 1426disposed around the first and second posts 1412 and 1414, respectively.In various embodiments, the electromagnetic coils 1424 and 1426 may beflat electromagnetic coils disposed in a printed circuit board (PCB), orthey may be vertically-oriented wire electromagnetic coils with wireleads as shown in FIG. 14B. The common output orifice 1422 may be inconstant fluid communication with the valve cavity, regardless of whichposition the valve is in. Conversely, the first and second pressureinlets 1416 and 1418 are either in fluid communication with the interiorvalve cavity 1420, and thus, the common output orifice 1422, or they aresealed from fluid communication with the interior valve cavity by theshuttle 1410. When one of the two pressure inlets 1416 and 1418 is influid communication with the interior valve cavity, the other pressureinlet is sealed by the shuttle.

The first pressure inlet 1416 and the second pressure inlet 1418 may, insome embodiments, extend through the same side of the valve 1400 as thecommon output orifice 1422, as shown in FIG. 14B. Moreover, the firstand second posts 1412 and 1414 may each have an additional pressureinlet 1428 and 1430, respectively, as shown in FIG. 14C. The thirdpressure inlet 1428 may be in constant fluid communication with thefirst pressure inlet 1416, while the fourth pressure inlet may be inconstant fluid communication with the second pressure inlet 1418. Insome embodiments, the valve 1400 may feature a third pressure inlet 1428and a fourth pressure inlet 1430, each extending through theirrespective first and second posts, without the additional first andsecond pressure inlets 1416 and 1418.

Referring now also to FIGS. 15A-15B, in some embodiments, a bistablevalve 1500 may include a shuttle 1502 comprising a magnet. The valve1500 may further include a first membrane portion 1508 fixedly abuttinga first post 1504, and a second membrane portion 1510 fixedly abutting asecond post 1506, the first and second membrane portions 1508 and 1510,as well as the shuttle 1502 being disposed in an interior valve cavity1516. The first post 1504 and the first membrane portion 1508 may beconfigured to provide fluid communication from a first pressure inlet1512 to the interior valve cavity 1516 when the shuttle 1502 is notsealed against the first membrane portion 1508. Similarly, the secondpost 1506 and the second membrane portion 1510 may be configured toprovide fluid communication from a second pressure inlet 1514 to theinterior valve cavity 1516 when the shuttle 1502 is not sealed againstthe second membrane portion 1510. A common output orifice 1518 is inconstant fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 1516,regardless of which position the shuttle 1502 is in. Conversely, thefirst and second pressure inlets 1512 and 1514 are either in fluidcommunication with the interior valve cavity 1516, and thus, the commonoutput orifice 1518, or they are sealed from fluid communication withthe interior valve cavity by the shuttle 1502. When one of the twopressure inlets 1512, 1514 is in fluid communication with the interiorvalve cavity 1518, the other pressure inlet is sealed by the shuttle1502.

Referring now also to FIGS. 16A-16B, in some embodiments, a bistablevalve 1600 may include a shuttle 1602 comprising ferrous metal. Thefirst post 1604 and the second post 1606 are each magnets. The valve1600 may further include a first membrane portion 1608 fixedly abuttinga first post 1604, and a second membrane portion 1610 fixedly abutting asecond post 1606, the first and second membrane portions 1608 and 1610,as well as the shuttle 1602 being disposed in an interior valve cavity1616. The first post 1604 and the first membrane portion 1608 may beconfigured to provide fluid communication from a first pressure inlet1612 to the interior valve cavity 1616 when the shuttle 1602 is notsealed against the first membrane portion 1608. Similarly, the secondpost 1606 and the second membrane portion 1610 may be configured toprovide fluid communication from a second pressure inlet 1614 to theinterior valve cavity 1616 when the shuttle 1602 is not sealed againstthe second membrane portion 1610. Output orifices 1618, 1620 are inconstant fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 1616,regardless of which position the shuttle 1602 is in. Conversely, thefirst and second pressure inlets 1612 and 1614 are either in fluidcommunication with the interior valve cavity 1616, and thus, the outputorifices 1618, 1620 or they are sealed from fluid communication with theinterior valve cavity by the shuttle 1602. When one of the two pressureinlets 1612, 1614 is in fluid communication with the interior valvecavity 1618, the other pressure inlet is sealed by the shuttle 1602. Invarious embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16B, the shuttle 1602 may bespherical and may be made from any material as described above withrespect to various embodiments of the shuttle. In various embodiments,the bistable valve 1600 may include contact terminals 1622, 1624.

Referring now also to FIGS. 17A-17E, in some embodiments, a bistablevalve 1700 may include a shuttle 1702 comprising a magnet portion 1724.The shuttle 1702 may further include a first membrane portion 1708 whichwill abut a first post 1704, and a second membrane portion 1710 whichwill abut a second post 1706, the first and second membrane portions1708 and 1710 attached to the magnet portion 1724, and the shuttle 1702is disposed in an interior valve cavity 1716. The first and secondmembrane portions 1708, 1710 may be attached to the magnet portion 1724using any type of adhesive, including, but not limited to, double sizedtape and or glue. In various other embodiments, the first and secondmembrane portions may be attached using any method of attachment.

The first post 1704 and the first membrane portion 1708, which isattached to the magnet portion 1724, may be configured to provide fluidcommunication from a first pressure inlet 1712 to the interior valvecavity 1716 when the shuttle 1702 is not sealed against the first post1704. Similarly, the second post 1706 and the second membrane portion1710, which is attached to the magnet portion 1724, may be configured toprovide fluid communication from a second pressure inlet 1714 to theinterior valve cavity 1716 when the shuttle 1702 is not sealed againstthe second post 1706. Output orifices 1718, 1720 are in constant fluidcommunication with the interior valve cavity 1716, regardless of whichposition the shuttle 1702 is in. Conversely, the first and secondpressure inlets 1712 and 1714 are either in fluid communication with theinterior valve cavity 1716, and thus, the output orifices 1718, 1720 orthey are sealed from fluid communication with the interior valve cavityby the shuttle 1702. When one of the two pressure inlets 1712, 1714 isin fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 1718, the otherpressure inlet is sealed by the shuttle 1702. In various embodiments,the shuttle 1702 may be cylindrical and may be made from any material asdescribed above with respect to various embodiments of the shuttle. Invarious embodiments, the bistable valve 1700 may include contactterminals 1722, 1724 as well as coils 1726, 1728 and end bodies 1730,1732 and end plates 1734, 1736, attached to the end bodies 1730, 1732.

The first and second posts 1704, 1706 shown in FIGS. 17B and 17E includetwo different embodiments of creating the two pressure inlets. In FIG.17B, the first and second posts 1704, 1706 include a hole machines in,whereas, in FIG. 17E, the first and second posts 1704, 1706 include amachine groove, which is a slot and/or curve cut 1742, 1744.

Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18B, in various embodiments, one or more ofany of the various embodiments of the bistable valve may be combinedinto an array and/or a manifold with multiple bistable valves 1800. Thearray 1800 includes one or more bistable valves including a shuttle1802, which may be any embodiment of the shuttle described herein. Themanifold 1800 includes end plates 1804, 1806 and a coil assembly 1808,that houses the shuttle 1802 as well as various other elementsincluding, but not limited to, the interior valve cavity 1810.

A bistable valve or valve system according to the various embodimentsmay be used in many different applications including, but not limitedto, use in a blood pump, hemodialysis machine, seat cushion, peritonealdialysis machine and/or other medical device. A bistable valve or valvesystem according to the various embodiments may also be used to inflatea seat cushion in a powered wheelchair or other device. A bistable valveor valve system according to the various embodiments may be used in anyapplication requiring the employment of a traditional standalonepneumatic or electronically-actuated valve.

Further, the electromagnetic functionality described above may beapplied to a monostable valve as well, where instead of the shuttlehaving a first and a second pressure position, the monostable valve hasan on and an off position with one pressure source.

A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will beunderstood that various modifications may be made. Accordingly, otherembodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Referring now also to FIGS. 19A-19B, various embodiments of the bistablevalve may be intergrated into various assemblies. An example is shown inFIGS. 19A-19B where an embodiment of the bistable valve 1906 isintegrated into a regulator for a medical device, for example, ahemodialysis machine. The integration includes a regulator PCB 1900 thatincludes the bistable valve 1906, outlet tubing 1902, inlet tubing 1904,a pressure sensor 1910 and a PCB valve adapter block 1908. This is oneembodiment of such an integration, however, one or more embodiments ofthe bistable valve may be incorporated into any device and/or used inconjunction with any device. In practice, one pressure inlet is blockedand the pressure is regulated using the inlet tubing 1904 and the outlettubing 1902.

Referring now also to FIGS. 20A-20C, in some embodiments, a bistablevalve 2000 may include a shuttle comprising a magnet portion 2024. Theshuttle may further include a first membrane portion 2008 which willabut a first post 2004, and a second membrane portion 2010 which willabut a second post 2006, the first and second membrane portions 2008 and2010 attached to the magnet portion 2024, and the shuttle is disposed inan interior valve cavity 2016. The first post 2004 and the firstmembrane portion 2008, which is attached to the magnet portion 2024, maybe configured to provide fluid communication from a first pressure inlet2012 to the interior valve cavity 2016 when the shuttle is not sealedagainst the first post 2004. Similarly, the second post 2006 and thesecond membrane portion 2010, which is attached to the magnet portion2024, may be configured to provide fluid communication from a secondpressure inlet 2014 to the interior valve cavity 2016 when the shuttleis not sealed against the second post 2006. Output orifices 2018, 2020are in constant fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 2016,regardless of which position the shuttle is in. Conversely, the firstand second pressure inlets 2012 and 2014 are either in fluidcommunication with the interior valve cavity 2016, and thus, the outputorifices 2018, 2020 or they are sealed from fluid communication with theinterior valve cavity by the shuttle. When one of the two pressureinlets 2012, 2014 is in fluid communication with the interior valvecavity 2016, the other pressure inlet is sealed by the shuttle. Invarious embodiments, the shuttle may be cylindrical and may be made fromany material as described above with respect to various embodiments ofthe shuttle. In various embodiments, the bistable valve 2000 may includecontact terminals 2022, 2024 as well as coils 2026, 2028 and end bodies2030, 2032 and end plates 2034, 2036, attached to the end plates 2030,2032. In various embodiments, the bistable valve 2000 may also includeat least one gasket seal 2038 and at least one face seal 2040. Invarious embodiments, the seals may be any type of seal and in variousembodiments, there may be more than one seal in the bistable valve 2000.In various embodiments, the bistable valve 2000 may also includelocating pins 2042, 2044 as well as a tie bar/screw 2046 and an end bodyhousing 2048. In some embodiments, the tie bar/screw 2046 attaches theend plates 2034, 2036 to the end body housing 2048, however, in variousother embodiments, various methods of attachment may be used includingadhesive, bolts, screws, pins, etc.

Referring now also to FIGS. 21A-21C, in some embodiments, a bistablevalve 2100 may include a shuttle 2102 comprising a two magnet portions2124, 2125 which are opposing magnet portions 2124, 2125. The shuttlemay further include a first membrane portion 2108 attached to the firstmagnet portion 2125 which will abut a first post 2104, and a secondmembrane portion 2110 attached to the second magnet portion 2124 whichwill abut a second post 2106. The shuttle 2102 is disposed in aninterior valve cavity 2116. The first post 2104 and the first membraneportion 2108, which is attached to the first magnet portion 2125, may beconfigured to provide fluid communication from a first pressure inlet2112 to the interior valve cavity 2116 when the shuttle 2102 is notsealed against the first post 2104. Similarly, the second post 2106 andthe second membrane portion 2110, which is attached to the second magnetportion 2124, may be configured to provide fluid communication from asecond pressure inlet 2114 to the interior valve cavity 2116 when theshuttle 2102 is not sealed against the second post 2106. In variousembodiments the first post 2104 and second post 2106 each include an airport 2152, 2154. In some embodiments of this embodiment, the first post2104 and the second post 2106 may not include the air ports 2152, 2154.Output orifice 2118 is in constant fluid communication with the interiorvalve cavity 2116, regardless of which position the shuttle is in.Conversely, the first and second pressure inlets 2112 and 2114 areeither in fluid communication with the interior valve cavity 2116, andthus, the output orifice 2118 or they are sealed from fluidcommunication with the interior valve cavity 2116 by the shuttle 2102.When one of the two pressure inlets 2112, 2114 is in fluid communicationwith the interior valve cavity 2116, the other pressure inlet is sealedby the shuttle 2102. In various embodiments, the shuttle may becylindrical and may be made from any material as described above withrespect to various embodiments of the shuttle. In various embodiments,the bistable valve 2100 may include contact terminals 2122, 2124 as wellas coils 2126, 2128 and end bodies 2130, 2132 and end plates 2134, 2136,attached to the end bodies 2130, 2132. In various embodiments, thebistable valve 2100 may also include at least one gasket seal 2138 andat least one face seal 2140. In various embodiments, the seals may beany type of seal and in various embodiments, there may be more than oneseal in the bistable valve 2100. In various embodiments, the bistablevalve 2100 may also include locating pins as well as a tie bar/screw(not shown) and an end body housing 2048. In some embodiments, the tiebar/screw attaches the end plates 2134, 2136 to the end body housing2148, however, in various other embodiments, various methods ofattachment may be used including adhesive, bolts, screws, pins, etc.

In various embodiments of the various bistable valves described herein,the coil may be PCB-based flat coils (i.e., coils printed on a circuitboard) or wire wound coils.

In various embodiments, stabilizing features may be added to themembrane and/or to the valve seat to assist in sealing the shuttle onthe valve seat. Stabilizing features may include, but are not limitedto, bumps, nobs, posts, etc. Referring now again to FIG. 17E, in someembodiments, the bistable valve 1700 may include stabilizing features1740. Although not shown in all figures, stabilizing features may beincluded in any embodiment.

In various embodiments, any of the magnets shown as part of the shuttlemay include embodiments where the magnets are stacked, i.e., more thanone magnet forms the magnetic portion of the shuttle. In variousembodiments, the size, shape and thickness of the magnet may vary theforce, whether opposing or attracting, of the magnet. Therefore, invarious embodiments, the size, shape and or thickness of the magnet mayvary.

In various embodiments, the where two magnets are shown, they may bereplaced by one magnet and where one magnet is shown, it may be replacedby two magnets. The various embodiments include various features. One ormore features from one embodiment may be combined with one or morefeatures from one or more other embodiment to form other embodiments.

In various embodiments, the posts may be any shape including those shownas well as other shapes, including, but not limited to pointed.

While the principles of the invention have been described herein, it isto be understood by those skilled in the art that this description ismade only by way of example and not as a limitation as to the scope ofthe invention. Other embodiments are contemplated within the scope ofthe present invention in addition to the exemplary embodiments shown anddescribed herein. Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinaryskill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the presentinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bistable valve assembly comprising: an interiorcavity; a first pressure source connected to the interior cavity; asecond pressure source connected to the interior cavity; a first postconnected to the interior cavity at a first end of the interior cavity;a second post connected to the interior cavity at a second end of theinterior cavity; a magnetic shuttle located within the interior cavity;a first electromagnetic coil disposed about the first post; a secondelectromagnetic coil disposed about the second post; wherein when thefirst electromagnetic coil is energized, the first electromagnetic coilsupplies a magnetic charge to the first post and actuates the magneticshuttle to move towards the first end of the interior cavity towards thefirst post and seal the first pressure source, and wherein when thesecond electromagnetic coil is energized, the second electromagneticcoil supplies a magnetic charge to the second post and actuates themagnetic shuttle to move towards the second end of the interior cavitytowards the second post and seal the second pressure source.
 2. Thevalve assembly of claim 1, wherein the first post is in fluidcommunication with the first pressure source and the second post is influid communication with the second pressure source.
 3. The valveassembly of claim 1, further comprising a first and second pressureinlet, the first and second pressure inlet fluidly connected to thefirst and second pressure source.
 4. The valve assembly of claim 1,wherein the interior valve cavity located between the first and secondpost.
 5. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic shuttlecomprising a first membrane portion, a magnet portion and a secondmembrane portion, the first and second membrane portions attached to themagnet portion on opposite ends of the magnet portion.
 6. The valveassembly of claim 1, wherein the shuttle is sealed against the firstpost in a first configuration and wherein the shuttle is sealed againstthe second post in a second configuration.
 7. The valve assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the first post comprising a first membrane and whereinthe second post comprising a second membrane.
 8. The valve assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the first post and the second post further comprisingat least one stabilizing feature.
 9. The valve assembly of claim 1,further comprising an output orifice in fluid communication with thevalve cavity.
 10. A bistable valve assembly comprising: an interiorcavity; a first pressure source connected to the interior cavity; asecond pressure source connected to the interior cavity; a magneticshuttle located within the interior cavity; and at least oneelectromagnetic coil that actuates the magnetic shuttle; wherein whenthe electromagnetic coil is energized, the electromagnetic coil suppliesa magnetic charge that actuates the magnetic shuttle to move towards afirst end of the interior cavity and seal the first pressure source. 11.The valve assembly of claim 10, further comprising a first post and asecond post, wherein the first post is in fluid communication with thefirst pressure source and the second post is in fluid communication withthe second pressure source.
 12. The valve assembly of claim 10, furthercomprising a first electromagnetic coil disposed about the first postwherein, when energized, the electromagnetic coil supplies magneticcharge to the first post.
 13. The valve assembly of claim 12, furthercomprising a second electromagnetic coil disposed about the second postwherein, when energized, the electromagnetic coil supplies magneticcharge to the second post.
 14. The valve assembly of claim 10, furthercomprising a first post and a second post.
 15. The valve assembly ofclaim 14, wherein the first post and the second post further comprisingat least one stabilizing feature.
 16. The valve assembly of claim 10,further comprising a first electromagnetic coil disposed about the firstpost wherein, when energized, the electromagnetic coil supplies magneticcharge to the first post.
 17. The valve assembly of claim 16, furthercomprising a second electromagnetic coil disposed about the second postwherein, when energized, the electromagnetic coil supplies magneticcharge to the first post.
 18. The valve assembly of claim 10, furthercomprising a first and second pressure inlet, the first and secondpressure inlet fluidly connected to the first and second pressuresource.
 19. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the magnetic shuttleis disposed within the interior valve cavity and wherein the interiorvalve cavity located between the first and second post.
 20. The valveassembly of claim 10, wherein the magnetic shuttle comprising a firstmembrane portion, a magnet portion and a second membrane portion, thefirst and second membrane portions attached to the magnet portion onopposite ends of the magnet portion.
 21. The valve assembly of claim 10,wherein the shuttle is sealed against the first pressure source in afirst configuration and wherein the shuttle is sealed against the secondpressure source in a second configuration.